Explore the Best of Turkey and Greece: Private Guided 9-Day Tour
This tour includes a visit to Istanbul, Cappadocia, Athens, and Santorini, with flights included between each destination. Explore Istanbul’s iconic landmarks such as the Blue Mosque and visit the Grand Bazaar to purchase traditional Turkish souvenirs. Next, fly to Cappadocia, where you will be captivated by the unique landscapes formed by volcanic rock formations.
Explore the ancient city of Delphi and its well-preserved ruins, including the Temple of Apollo.Finally, end your tour in Santorini, one of the most picturesque Greek islands.This combined Turkey and Greece tour provides a comprehensive experience of the rich cultures and histories of both countries and is sure to be a memorable trip.
DAY 1 Istanbul
You will be picked from Istanbul Airport and taken to your hotel. Today there is no scheduled activity.
HOTEL INFO
Ritz Carlton Istanbul
Located in the heart of the city, The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul offers enviable access to the city’s most compelling points of interest.
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DAY 2 Istanbul – Classical Old City
This morning, set off on a half-day tour of Istanbul to discover it’s most emblematic sights and monuments.
Our guide will pick you up from the hotel for a full-day walking tour of the heart of Ottoman and Byzantine history.
The highlights of the day include:
Blue Mosque: Visit one of the most iconic landmarks of Istanbul, known for its impressive blue tile work and grandeur.
Hippodrome: Step back in time at the ancient chariot-racing track and see the Egyptian Obelisk, Serpent Column, and German Fountain.
Hagia Sophia (optional): Enter the magnificent Hagia Sophia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its Byzantine architecture and breathtaking interior.
After the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Istanbul for overnight stay with breakfast included.
HOTEL INFO
Ritz Carlton Istanbul
Located in the heart of the city, The Ritz-Carlton, Istanbul offers enviable access to the city’s most compelling points of interest.
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DAY 3 Flight to Cappadocia and Tour
Early Morning: You will be picked up from your Istanbul hotel at 04:00 AM and transferred to the airport for your flight at **06:55 AM to Cappadocia.
Morning: Upon arrival in Cappadocia, you will be greeted by our guide and transferred to Goreme, where your exciting adventure begins.
Approximately 09:00 AM: Start your first day of the tour, exploring the enchanting Fairy Chimneys and Rock Churches that define the unique beauty of Cappadocia.
Your tour typically starts around 09:00 and concludes by 16:00 at the latest.
Highlights of the day:
Goreme Esentepe – Panoramic View: Our journey begins at the Esentepe viewpoint, a breathtaking panoramic spot between Uçhisar and Göreme. From here, you’ll take in stunning views of the unique Cappadocian landscape, including the fairy chimneys and the charming town of Esentepe.
Zelve Open-Air Museum: Next, we visit the Zelve Open-Air Museum, an extraordinary site that once served as a monastic and Christian learning center. This historical area features ancient monasteries, churches, and chapels adorned with beautifully preserved frescoes, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich past.
Pasabag (Monks Valley): Our tour continues to Paşabağ, also known as Monks Valley, famous for its iconic three-headed fairy chimneys. The valley, often called “Pasha’s Vineyard,” boasts some of the most striking rock formations in Cappadocia, creating an otherworldly landscape.
Devrent Valley: A short drive takes us to Devrent Valley, renowned for its surreal rock formations that resemble a lunar landscape. The small, pointed fairy chimneys here create an imaginative setting, with some formations resembling animals and mythical creatures.
Avanos Pottery Workshop: We then visit the charming town of Avanos, a hub of pottery-making since 3000 BC. The town is known for its skilled artisans who use clay from the Red River to create beautiful ceramic pieces. Visitors will have the chance to see a traditional pottery workshop and witness the craftsmanship firsthand.
Love Valley: Our final stop is the extraordinary Love Valley, where erosion over millions of years has shaped towering rock formations, some reaching up to 40 meters. This dramatic landscape features cone-shaped pillars, pinnacles, and fairy chimneys, making it one of the most unusual and photogenic spots in Cappadocia.
Return to your Cave Hotel for overnight stay with breakfast included.
HOTEL INFO
Seraphim Cave and Spa Hotel
An Incomparable Cappadocia Experience in a Historic Mansion Welcome to Seraphim Cave Cappadocia Seraphim Cave Cappadocia brings you an exceptional and authentic Cappadocia experince.
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DAY 4 Land Tour in Cappadocia
Start your day with an awe-inspiring experience by witnessing the breathtaking sunrise over Cappadocia from a hot air balloon (optional).
Marvel at the colorful skies as you soar above the unique rock formations and fairy chimneys. After the balloon ride, enjoy a delightful champagne toast upon landing before being transferred back to your hotel.
Your tour typically starts around 09:00 and concludes by 16:00 at the latest.
Highlights of the day:
Meskendir Valley (4.4 km Trek): Our adventure begins with a scenic trek through Meskendir Valley, located near Ortahisar. Stretching 4.4 km, this valley is home to the historic Meskendir Church, known for its striking geometric red decorations and a large cross engraving on the chapel ceiling. Visitors can explore the church’s interior and take in the valley’s breathtaking surroundings.
Rose Valley: One of Cappadocia’s most stunning locations, Rose Valley is famous for its unique rock formations and hidden rock-carved churches. This secluded valley, located behind Ürgüp, is crisscrossed by trails that connect small villages and towns through vineyards and gardens. Along the way, you may encounter friendly locals offering fresh grapes, apples, or apricots.
Red Valley: Similar to Rose Valley, Red Valley is known for its impressive rock formations and ancient cave churches. Its maze-like trails wind through the landscape, linking remote villages and farmlands in a way that resembles a spider’s web. This valley is a must-visit for those looking to experience Cappadocia’s natural beauty and history.
Cavusin Valley: Next, we explore Çavuşin Village, one of the oldest settlements in Cappadocia. The village is famous for its cave houses carved into the rock, creating a labyrinth of ancient dwellings. It is also home to the Church of John the Baptist, the largest cave church in Cappadocia, dating back to the 5th century.
Underground City: Cappadocia is home to 36 underground cities, built by early Christians to escape persecution. We will visit the most extensive and well-known of these subterranean settlements. Divided into eight levels, visitors can explore sections of the underground city, including ancient wineries, kitchens, and living quarters, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.
Pigeon Valley: Located on the outskirts of Göreme, Pigeon Valley gets its name from the pigeon houses carved into the cliffs over centuries. In the past, local farmers used pigeon manure as a natural fertilizer for their crops. Today, the valley offers stunning panoramic views and is a great spot for photography.
Uchisar Castle Panorama: Our final stop is in the picturesque town of Uçhisar, the highest point in Cappadocia. The town’s centerpiece is Uçhisar Castle, a towering rock formation that once served as a fortress. From the top, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the entire region, including the majestic Erciyes Mountain in the distance.
After an adventurous hike and lots of sights, we will head back to your hotel for the overnight around 16:00.
HOTEL INFO
Seraphim Cave and Spa Hotel
An Incomparable Cappadocia Experience in a Historic Mansion Welcome to Seraphim Cave Cappadocia Seraphim Cave Cappadocia brings you an exceptional and authentic Cappadocia experince
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DAY 5 Flight to Greece Athens
Transfer to Kayseri airport catch flight to Istanbul and reach your connetting flight to Athens*.
You will be picked from Athens Airport and taken to your hotel. Today there is no scheduled activity.
* Flight Details : ( TK 2017 ASR 13:25 – IST 14:55 TK 1845 IST 18:50 – ATH 20:15
HOTEL INFO
Athens Cypria Hotel
Athens Cypria Hotel is a charming and elegant hotel located in the heart of Athens. With its ideal location, just steps away from the famous Syntagma Square, the hotel is a perfect…
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DAY 6 Guided Tour in Athens
You will learn all there is to know about their history and background from the licensed English-speaking Tour Guide accompanying you on this tour.
Highlights of the day:
After your breakfast and, at the agreed time, you will commence the panoramic tour of the Athenian Neoclassical Center: the Parliament, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the University, the Library, and National Academy, the Ilion Palace, the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian’s Gate, the Panathenaic Stadium, and many other monuments and sites of great interest.
Your next stop will be the “sacred rock”, the spectacular, unique and magnificent Acropolis and the Acropolis Museum.
At the end of the visit, you can either choose to return to your hotel or set out on your own adventure through the charming and picturesque streets of Plaka.
After the tour overnight in Athens.
HOTEL INFO
Athens Cypria Hotel
Athens Cypria Hotel is a charming and elegant hotel located in the heart of Athens. With its ideal location, just steps away from the famous Syntagma Square, the hotel is a perfect..
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DAY 7 Ferry to Santorini from Athens
Early in the morning, our transfer vehicle will be waiting for you to transfer you to the port of Piraeus where you will board the ferry to the island which is an inexhaustible source of inspiration: Santorini.
Approaching the island by ferry you will be amazed by the imposing sight of the town of Fira, with its white houses overhanging the cliff and overlooking the volcano.
Upon your arrival to the island, one of our representatives will be waiting for you at the port to welcome you, transfer you to your hotel and offer a first-hand account of some of the notable characteristics of this picturesque island.
The rest of the day is free to enjoy it as you please; walk in the scenic alleys during daytime, while at night immerse yourself in the island’s big party scene.
Overnight in Santorini.
HOTEL INFO
Exi Castle Suites Santorini
Exi Castle Suites Santorini is a luxurious hotel located on the picturesque island of Santorini, Greece. This boutique hotel offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea and is surro..
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DAY 8 Free day in Santorini
Free day for you to explore at your own pace this magical island, considered to be the lost continent of Atlantis.
The name of the island was given by the Venetian Giacomo Barozzi owing to the presence of a chapel dedicated to Saint Eirini. His descendants remained until 1576, when it became part of the Duchy of Naxos and until the Turkish conquest by Piyale Pasha.
Overnight in Santorini.
HOTEL INFO
Exi Castle Suites Santorini
Exi Castle Suites Santorini is a luxurious hotel located on the picturesque island of Santorini, Greece. This boutique hotel offers stunning views of the Aegean Sea and is surro..
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DAY 9 Departure airport transfer
At the agreed time, you will be transferred to the airport of Santorini, from where you will board your flight to Athens.
Your arrival at the airport will correspond to your international flight.